Moth mullein
Verbascum blattaria · Scrophulariaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant moth mullein: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Adult size
- 24 to 47 inches tall
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy to -4°F
- Origin
- Southern Europe and Western Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, chalky, poor to moderate
Care
Sunlight
Moth mullein prefers full sun for generous and colorful flowering. It tolerates partial shade but flowers less abundantly. Plant it in a sunny, well-aerated location, sheltered from strong winds if possible.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year to establish a good root system. Once well established, the plant is quite drought-tolerant. Avoid excess moisture, particularly in winter, which would promote rot.
Soil
Well-drained soil is essential for this plant. It thrives in chalky, rocky, or poor soil. Improve drainage if your soil is heavy by incorporating sand or gravel at planting time.
Fertilizer
Moth mullein is not demanding. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Soil that is too rich encourages vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and deadheading
Regularly remove spent flowers to extend blooming. In late fall, you can cut the plant back to ground level or leave it in place if it self-seeds. Remove dead stems in early spring.
Diseases and pests
Moth mullein is generally robust. Watch for powdery mildew in case of excessive humidity: improve air circulation. Aphids may occasionally appear, but rarely with severity.
Did you know?
The scientific name "blattaria" comes from the Latin "blatta" (cockroach), because it was once believed that this plant repelled cockroaches and harmful insects. Although little effective for this purpose, this belief led to its traditional uses as a natural insecticide in European gardens.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.